Galleries

The 16th Annual Hope for All Gala benefiting Camillus House was held on Saturday December 12th, at the Hilton Miami Downtown. The fabulous event raise funds to support Camillus House & Health’s mission to help individuals and families who are poor and homeless in South Florida. The annual event is supported by South Florida’s most generous and prominent philanthropists. The 15th Annual Hope for All Gala raised over $1.9 million for the poor and homeless of Greater Miami.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s black-tie gala event, the 9th Annual “Wild About Kids” Gala was held on November 7th, 2015 at the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne. The event was chaired by longtime supporters of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade and local philanthropists, Juan Jose Delgado and Gabriela Rachadell de Delgado. Proceeds benefited Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s many positive programs, including after school programs, homework assistance, computer training, social skills, dance, arts & crafts, professional mentoring, and summer and athletic programs, for area children who need them the most.

The past Women of Distinction & Caring honorees included a diverse group of outstanding women who have been community leaders, entrepreneurs, founders of non-profit organizations, broadcast journalists, health care professionals, and philanthropists. Marile Lopez, became a 2015 Woman of Distinction & Caring honoree at the Sixth Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon by the Plaza Health Network, recognizing her for the amazing work she does in our community. The 6th Annual Women of Distinction Luncheon took place on Thursday November 5th, at Jungle Island. The honorees were introduced to the guests with a video created by Emmy Award winning documentary film maker, Jerry Levine.

On November 3rd, there was a cocktail reception given by the Most Reverend Archbishop Thomas Wenski in order to thank the donors of the annual ABCD Drive. The donors were invited in order to thank them for their commitment to the Archdiocese of Miami.

The Archdiocese of Miami honored ten outstanding women from across the archdiocese for their work, dedication, and commitment to the Catholic Church with the 2nd Annual Women of Faith awards. The award ceremony took place on Sunday November 1st, at noon at the Turnberry Isle Hotel in Avenutra. As a recipient of the St. Vincent de Paul Award with the Virtue: Charity at last year’s Women of Faith event, Marile Lopez was honored and privileged to have presented this year’s honoree — Maria Simosa with the Virtue of Charity.

The Sebastian Ferrero Foundation Noche de Gala was held on October 24th and hosted by Silvia and Benjamin Leon, Jr. at Besilu, their spectacular 675-acre farm in Micanopy, Florida. Besilu is home to the Besilu Collection, a dynasty of Paso Fino champions. This unique event supports the mission to advocate and fundraise for advancements in facilities, patient safety and innovative programs that serve children receiving pediatric care and their families. As Board Chair of Miami Children’s Health Foundation, Marile and Jorge Luis, helped represent the amazing Nicklaus Children’s Hospital and the Miami Children’s Health System by serving as ambassadors and advocates amongst this new and well-connected audience.

The 20th Anniversary Chapman Partnership Gala took place October 17th, 2015 at the JW Marriott Marquis. That evening the Chapman Partnership celebrated their annual gala as well as 20 years of empowering the homeless with a legacy of empathy, humanity, and achievements. Chapman Partnership helps the homeless by providing a comprehensive support program that includes emergency housing, meals, health, dental and psychiatric care, day care, job training, job placement and assistance with securing stable housing.Since 1995, Chapman Partnership has had more than 100,000 admissions including 20,000 children in Miami-Dade County and a 64% success rate of moving people from homelessness to self-sufficiency.

The Miami Children’s Health Foundation hosted its Annual Diamond Ball Affair with this year’s theme as Diamonds Are Forever, on October 10th, at the JW Marriott Marquis. The event was attended by countless community leaders, philanthropists, physicians, friends, supporters, patients and families of Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. The signature event raised more than $3 million dollars, including announced gifts, which will help Nicklaus Children’s Hospital continue as a world leader and global destination for pediatric health and wellness, as well as a provider of hope for children everywhere.

The American Cancer Society 2015 Annual Gala Cocktail Reception was held on Wednesday June, 24th at Grove Isle. This event took place in order to recognize the 2015 sponsors of the Annual American Cancer Society Miami Gala.

Hosted by Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez and Lourdes P. Gimenez, along with 2015 Mayor’s Ball event chairs, Shannon and Vincent Signorello of Florida East Coast Industries, and together with more than 1,000 business and community leaders celebrated the spirit of goodwill, raised more than $1 Million to benefit United Way of the Miami-Dade community.

On Saturday May 2nd, Carrollton School of the Sacred Heart bid farewell to Sister Cooke, Carrollton’s Headmistress of 17 years. The even was held at that InterContinental Hotel Miami. TheGoodbye Sister Cooke Galais a celebration in honor of Headmistress Suzanne Cooke, RSCJ for her many years of loving service to Carrollton, their students, parents, alumnae, trustees and friends.

On Saturday May 2nd, Marile and I were delighted to host Senator Marco Rubio at our Coconut Grove home for a private and intimate dinner in support of Senator Marco Rubio. We shared a “Taste of Miami” — serving Veuve Clicquot champagne and savoring Florida Stone Crabs; over delightful conversation with Miami’s Native Son — Marco!

The 15th annual“Miracle Makers Luncheon and Fashion Show,” hosted by the Women’s Committee of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Miami, along with this year’s co-chairs Irene Korge, Bronwyn Miller, and Migna Sanchez-Llorens took place on April 30th at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne. Marile Lopez was one of twelve selected to receive the 2015 Miracle Maker Award for her philanthropic work in the Miami-Dade community.

On Sunday April 26th 450 people from about 40 archdiocesan parishes gathered at Joe’s Stone Crab for the 2015 Cheers to Charity at Joe’s Stone Crab, an event benefiting the Archdiocese of Miami. Guests enjoyed South Florida’s best stone crabs along with cocktails and in the process raised $135,000 for the South Florida Church.

The Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts of Miami-Dade County hosted its 9th anniversary gala on Friday April 24, 2015 at the Sanford and Dolores Ziff Ballet Opera House which was transformed into an intimate dining and performance space for this special evening. The 9th annual gala was once again chaired by two of South Florida’s most esteemed members of the philanthropic community, Swanee and Paul DiMare. Adrienne Arsht, the Center’s name benefactor, served as honorary chair and Margaret and Mike Eidson served as Gala co-chairs. Gala proceeds supports the Center’s mission-driven arts education and community outreach programs.

The 13th Annual Galaxy Gala themed “Aqua Lumière” was held on April 18th 2015 at the Hilton Miami Downtown raising over $1 million at the Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science. The Gala Philanthropic Chairs were Dan & Trish Bell and Phillip & Patricia Frost. Since its inception, the Galaxy Gala has helped raise funds for the development of the new Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science, a state-of-the-art facility under construction in downtown Miami’s Museum Park, slated to open in summer 2016.

The American Cancer Society’s 2015 Miami Gala was be held at the beautiful JW Marriott Marquis on Saturday, April 11, 2015. Festivities began at 6:30 PM with a fun filled evening that included a cocktail reception a silent auction, followed by an amazing dinner, and fabulous live entertainment! The 2015 Miami Gala is one of the premier gala events of its kind to be held in the country. This year’s event was presented by The Miami Cancer Institute, Chairs Christina and David Martin, and Honorary Chairs for this year were Lourdes and Felipe Valls.

The Hispanic Leadership Awards is celebrated annually in the month of March. It is a signature event of the South Florida Hispanic Chamber and recognizes individuals that provide excellence in different fields within the Hispanic market of South Florida. Marile Lopez was selected to receive the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Hispanic Leadership Award in Philanthropy category — recognizing her outstanding support she provides to local South Florida charitable organizations.

Miami Children’s becomes Nicklaus Children’s Hospital. On March 19th, 2015 Miami Children’s Hospital unveiled a logo featuring its new Nicklaus Children’s Hospital name, during a press conference with golf icon Jack Nicklaus and his wife Barbara. The new name was taken into effect on March 20th, on the hospital’s 65th anniversary. The name change is in recognition of a $60 million pledge from the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation to the Miami Children’s Health System. The Miami Children’s Health Foundation, which raises funds for the health system, is currently in the midst of its Together for the Children Campaign, aimed at raising $150 million by 2017.In addition, the hospital’s eight outpatient centers will also assume the Nicklaus name.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and The Vizcayans hosted its 7th Annual Preservation Luncheon, widely known as the “Hat Luncheon” on March 17th, 2015. Bringing together a cross section of Miami’s social and philanthropic leaders donned in creative headwear, this luncheon is Vizcaya’s only major daytime fundraiser held on the estate.The luncheon is a friend-raiser and fund-raiser to support the preservation of Vizcaya and the organization’s educational programs surrounding the arts, history and the environment.

The 33rd Annual American Red Cross Ball presented by FPL was held at the Ritz Carlton Key Biscayne, Saturday March 14th, 2015. Marile and Jorge Luis Lopez, Esq., were the 2015 Red Cross Ball Chairs and named this year’s theme: ‘In Giving, We Receive.’ Guests were treated to a reception and silent auction, courtesy of the Bacardi lounge, and enjoyed a magical evening produced by WOW Factor Marketing featuring a monochromatic red theme. Notable event attendees included Miami-Dade County District 13 Commissioner Esteban Bovo, City of Miami Mayor Tomas Regalado and numerous influential philanthropists.

The Women of Tomorrow Mentor & Scholarship Program held its annual Women of Tomorrow gala at the beautiful Mandarin Oriental Hotel on March 7th,2015 — with more than 500 of South Florida’s leading philanthropists, celebrities and politicians in attendance.

The 4th Annual Wine, Women & Shoes was held at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami. Wine, Women, & Shoes brings approximately 500 women together to share their personal stories and speak about why they are committed to raising funds for the children at MCH. At this year’s event, the women collectively raised more than $600,000. Marile Lopez proudly serves as Board Chair of the Miami Children’s Health Foundation, benefiting the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital (MCH).

The Hilton Miami Downtown played host to one of Miami’s most distinguished charities, Camillus House, for a spectacular gala themed “Guayaberas and Good Times.” The sold-out event was one of the most successful fundraisers in the history of Camillus House, raising $2 million for persons who are more vulnerable and homeless in our community. The 15th annual “Hope for All” Gala featured an incredible array of silent and live auction items featuring the very best in wines, travel and lifestyle items. Gala Chairs including : Jodi & Bob Dickinson, Constance & Mike Fernandez, Marile & Jorge Luis Lopez, and Teresa & Marc Sarnoff.

Vizcaya sparkled at its 58th Annual Ball, which took place on Saturday, November 22. Guests walked down the 200-foot red carpet to the black-tie event, themed “Vizcaya, The Jewel of South Florida.” Vizcaya Museum and Gardens is a National Historic Landmark that preserves the Miami estate of agricultural industrialist James Deering to engage our community and its visitors in learning through the arts, history and the environment. Built between 1914 and 1922, Vizcaya is one of the most intact remaining examples from this era in United States history, when the nation’s most successful entrepreneurs built lavish estates inspired by the stately homes of Europe.

Supporters of The American Red Cross Greater Miami & The Keys Chapter, along with future attendees of the 33rd Annual American Red Cross Ball, presented by FPL and chaired by Marile and Jorge Luis Lopez, attended an invitation only soiree kicking off the fundraising efforts for the main event on March 14, 2015. The evening was co-hosted by Eilah Beavers, Swanee DiMare, Marile Lopez, Bronwyn Miller and Irene Korge, who also hosted the event at her private residence. Guests enjoyed cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and participated in a silent auction featuring an exclusive item by Christofle, the legendary French manufacturer of fine silver flatware and home accessories.

The Women’s Fund Miami-Dade announced ten spectacular Hispanic women philanthropists who were honored at the first ever Mujeres Giving Back recognition luncheon on Friday, November 14th, 2014, at the Westin Colonnade Coral Gables. Marile Lopez was chosen to receive the “Mujeres Giving Back Treasure” Award for her exceeding dedication to giving back to the community, her spiritually-aligned perspective of the world, and continuous efforts to pave the way for young female professionals reaching to successfully balance faith, family, and their career.

The Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s black-tie gala event, the 8th Annual “Wild About Kids” Gala was held on November 8th, 2014 at Downtown Miami’s JW Marriott Marquis Miami. The event was chaired by longtime supporters of Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade and local philanthropists, Dr. Robert H. Thomas and Eris Thomas. Proceeds benefited Boys & Girls Clubs of Miami-Dade’s many positive programs, including after school programs, homework assistance, computer training, social skills, dance, arts & crafts, professional mentoring, and summer and athletic programs, for area children who need them the most.

The Sunshine Awards is a signature event of the South Florida Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. During this years 20th Annual Sunshine Award luncheon, the chamber recognized the Jorge Luis Lopez Law Firm for its success,contributions, and community involvement.

For the first time in its history, the Archdiocese of Miami honored ten outstanding women from across the archdiocese for their work, dedication and commitment to the Catholic Church with the first ever “Women of Faith” awards. The award ceremony took place on Sunday October 26th at noon at the Turnberry Isle Hotel in Avenutra. Marile Lopez was honored by theArchdiocese of Miami’s first ever Women of Faith Awards with the Virtue: Charity – Saint: St. Vincent de Paul Award.

Paying tribute to the Hospital’s grateful patients, world-class physicians and generous philanthropists, the Miami Children’s Hope Diamond Ball Affair was attended by countless community leaders, philanthropists, physicians, friends, supporters, patients and families of Miami Children’s Hospital. The signature event raised more than $6 million dollars, including announced gifts in which will help Miami Children’s Hospital continue as a world leader and global destination for pediatric health and wellness,as well as a provider of hope for children everywhere.

The 4th Annual MCH5K Hyundai Hope On Wheels Run/Walk presented by Sabadell Bank benefitting Miami Children’s Hospital was held on Saturday, September 20, 2014, in Coral Gables, FL. The MCH5K raised nearly $500,000 for the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital, bringing the total amount raised since its inception to nearly two million dollars.

The Annual Gala is the main fundraising event to support the seminary and enable them to continue their mission of forming priests for the New Evangelization of Miami, while serving at the will of Archbishop Wenski. Jorge Luis Lopez, Esq. was recognized as a Lay Leader by the Redemptoris Mater for his service of over 25 years to the Archdiocese of Miami, and his work with Catholic Association of Latino Leaders (C.A.L.L.) a national organization dedicated to the Latino leaders in the US and their knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith.

Jorge Luis Lopez was one of three selected men honored as “Father of the Year” by the American Diabetes Association and the Father’s Day Council. Each honoree was selected for their passionate display in every aspect of their lives, each working hard to establish himself both professionally and in the community. “There is no greater honor than receiving this award, which means so much to me and my family. All my hard work and accomplishments are for them and in turn, they inspire me to do my best. I couldn’t be as involved as I am at my professional and philanthropic efforts, if it wasn’t for their incredible support.” – Jorge Luis Lopez

Click here to watch as the Lopez family shares highlights and memories of Jorge Luis Lopez, Father of the Year.

Jorge Luis Lopez received the 2014 Claude Pepper Memorial Community Advocacy Award for his philanthropic work with the elderly and disabled adults. He was awarded by Jose Fox, the President and Chief Executive Officer of United HomeCare, a nonprofit home and community-based care organization in South Florida. The “40 Years and Beyond” celebration took place on May 15th at Miami’s Jungle Island.

The American Cancer Society’s Miami Gala 2014 which was held at the JW Marriott Marquis under the theme Le Bal De Bijoux was attended by more than 800 influential leaders within Miami’s social and corporate communities, gathering for a night of elegance, exquisite food, and live entertainment to support the fight against cancer. The event was presented by South Florida Ford Dealers Association and its purpose wasn’t only to raise much needed funds to support the American Cancer Society’s free services to cancer patients in the community and already established programs and research studies to stop this disease; but it also honored the philanthropic work of Remedios & Fausto Diaz-Oliver, loyal volunteers of the Organization and huge Community Leaders in Miami.

The Museum’s Twelfth Anniversary Gala created an unforgettable evening designed to usher guests into the future to experience the new Patricia and Phillip Frost Museum of Science, which will open in 2015. The 2014 Galaxy Gala took place on March 15th, at the JW Marriott Marquis.

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens and The Vizcayans hosted its 6th Annual Preservation Luncheon, widely known as the “Hat Luncheon” on February 25th, 2014. Bringing together a cross section of Miami’s social and philanthropic leaders donned in creative headwear, this luncheon is Vizcaya’s only major daytime fundraiser held on the estate.The luncheon is a friend-raiser and fund-raiser to support the preservation of Vizcaya and the organization’s educational programs surrounding the arts, history and the environment.

The American Red Cross celebrated its 31st Annual American Red Cross Ball at the Ritz-Carlton Key Biscayne with more than 450 prominent and influential community leaders and philanthropists in attendance for a night of entertainment, exquisite food, elegant décor and dancing. Commemorating its 31st year of fundraising through the efforts of an extraordinary committee, this year’s ball raised more than $500,000 in support of the local disaster response programs and other life-saving services offered by the American Red Cross South Florida Region.

Wine, Women & Shoes brings approximately 500 women together to share their personal stories and speak about why they are committed to raising funds for the children at MCH. At this year’s event, the women collectively raised more than $500,000. Marile Lopez proudly serves as Board Chair of the Miami Children’s Health Foundation, benefiting the children and families at Miami Children’s Hospital (MCH).

Click here to watch Marile Lopez and others share their stories and motivation.

An enchanting evening celebrating Fairchild’s 75th anniversary of opening to the public, guests enjoyed a cocktail reception, bidding on luxury items at the Silent Auction, dinning on an exquisite feast by Le Basque Catering and dancing by the moonlight surrounded by the lakeside marquee’s breathtaking décor. All proceeds raised go to supporting programs in conservation science, education and horticulture, the fundraiser will help keep Fairchild moving forward while staying true to the original vision of the founders – to provide a beautiful tropical garden for all to enjoy.

The 2013 theme, “A Venetian Masquerade,” encouraged guests to don exquisite Venetian masks while enjoying the festivities of a beautiful evening overlooking Biscayne Bay. All proceeds from the 57th Annual Vizcayan Ball directly supports the ongoing mission of The Vizcayans to preserve, protect and promote Vizcaya and its historic gardens.

Jorge Luis & Marile Lopez, nominated by the American Red Cross, where honored with the James W. McLamore Outstanding Volunteer Award during the 2014 National Philanthropy Day. In 1985, AFP Miami initiated the first National Philanthropy Day awards event. This special day is set aside to pay tribute to the great contributions that philanthropy—and the people active in Miami’s philanthropic community—have made to our lives, our local community and our world.

The Jorge Luis Lopez Law Firm team ran, walked and helped raise more than $150,000, for the American Cancer Society’s Making Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk 2013.Making Strides Against Breast Cancer (MSABC) is the largest network of breast cancer awareness events in the nation, uniting more than 300 communities to finish the fight. Every breast cancer walk and event is an incredible and inspiring opportunity to honor those who have battled breast cancer, raise awareness about what we can do to reduce our breast cancer risk, and raise money to help the American Cancer Society fight the disease with research, information, services, and access to mammograms for women who need them.Congress woman Ileana Ros-Lehtinen made mention of the Lopez Gov Law team within the Congressional Record on November 13, 2013, commemorating breast cancer awareness.

Click here to watch Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen speak out in support of breast cancer awareness.

The Inner Circle of Twelve recognizes twelve outstanding women for their leadership, volunteerism, community involvement and dedication to the American Cancer Society’s mission. Marile Lopez was one of the honorees selected by the American Cancer Society as a local philanthropist for her commitment to our community. The Inner Circle of 12 Luncheon took place on October 28th at the Intercontinental and was better than ever, raising $112,000 with over 500 guests in attendance.

Over 1,000 people came together to celebrate the 55th Anniversary of the Archdiocese of Miami with a Gala to benefit the different archdiocesan outreach programs that serve the many needs of the poor of our community.

Planning for the Miami Children’s Health Foundation (MCHF) 2014 Diamond Ball is underway. Marile Lopez, MCHF Board Chair, works diligently with the planning committee to recap the 2013 Ball, plan for the 2014 Ball and discuss events such as Sip, Shop & Style and Miracle Treat Day, all benefiting the children at Miami Children’s Hospital. Visit MCHF online to learn more about programs, events and ways to support.

With more than 1,000 business and community leaders in attendance, The 14th Annual Mayor’s Ball hosted by Miami-Dade Mayor Carlos A. Gimenez and Lourdes Gimenez, along with committee chairs, Yolanda and Jeff Berkowitz, generated $1.1 million to benefit United Way of Miami-Dade, supporting its efforts to improve education, financial stability and health. For more information and event pictures, click here.

Marile and Jorge Luis Lopez opened their home to host the Catholic Association of Latino Leaders annual meeting. This was one of the most significant meetings as his Excellency Monsignor Octavio Ruiz Arenas, secretary of the Pontifical Council for the Promotion of the New Evangelization to the Vatican, was in attendance. The Catholic Association of Latino Leaders (CALL) is a national organization dedicated to the growth and spiritual formation of the Latino leaders of this country in their knowledge and understanding of the Catholic faith. For more information, visit CALL online.

Marile & Jorge Luis Lopez pleased to be Grand Humanitarian Sponsors of the American Red Cross Ball. Commemorating its 31st year of fundraising through the efforts of an extraordinary committee, this year’s ball raised more than $500,000 in support of the local disaster response programs and other life-saving services offered by the American Red Cross South Florida Region.

Jorge Luis Lopez, Esq. was recognized as one of the 12 Good Men 2013. The awards ceremony, hosted during a luncheon benefiting the Ronald McDonald House Charities, honors 12 of South Florida’s most exceptional and outstanding men. Honored for their many contributions to the community and its needs, these men serve as excellent examples for many who want to follow in their footsteps. Click here for more post coverage photos!

Click here to watch highlights from the 12 Good Men 2013 awards ceremony.